Ontake The 1st Edition

A new distillery has risen in Japan in 2019; Ontake. This first Ontake Japanese Single Malt whisky is fully matured in old sherry casks specifically first-fill solera sherry butts. Underlying the whisky is exceptionally transparent and naturally soft water that has been filtered and polished over many years in the hilly Kagoshima area. Using home-grown yeast, carefully selected two-row barley grains and the sherry casks creates the clean, fruity and full-bodied flavour.

Tasting note

Colour

Bright amber

Nose

Plum mousse, dried sultanas, cinnamon and lemon

Taste

Rich and sweet wih dried fruit, hazelnut, pear compote, apricot and slightly spicy.

Finish

Warm and persistent with chocolate and an elegant sweetness and bitterness.

Ontake Distillery

Ontake Distillery, located in Japan, is a relatively new but notable player in the world of whisky. Founded in 2016, the distillery is located at the foot of sacred Mount Ontake in Nagano Prefecture, a location known for its pure water and clean air, ideal conditions for whisky production.

The distillery was founded by a group of passionate whisky lovers with the aim of combining Japanese traditions and innovative techniques. The Ontake Distillery team has drawn inspiration from both Scottish whisky traditions and rich Japanese culture, resulting in unique and refined whiskies.

Ontake Distillery uses locally grown barley and the pure spring water of Mount Ontake, which gives their whiskies a special character. Nagano's climate, with its cold winters and mild summers, provides excellent maturing conditions. The whiskies are matured in various types of casks, including ex-bourbon and Japanese Mizunara oak casks, which contributes to the complex flavour profiles.

Since its establishment, Ontake Distillery has quickly made a name for itself with their artisanal approach and high quality. Their whiskies are characterised by a harmonious interplay of fruity and floral aromas, combined with a subtle spiciness, which sets them apart in the international whisky world.